NELSON, New Zealand (AFP) - Authorities in the New Zealand city of Nelson have threatened rowdy teenagers with the latest in crime-fighting technology -- the music of US crooner Barry Manilow.

Police are considering playing "Copacabana", "Mandy", "I Write the Songs" and other Manilow classics, along with similar easy listening music from other artists, in prime downtown spots to discourage young people from loitering.

Police in the popular South Island tourist city believe the Manilow tunes will disperse groups who congregate in an inner-city carpark which has been the scene of fights and rowdy behaviour, The Press newspaper reported Wednesday.

I'm sure it would probably work... no offense to any of his many fans, but most young people today more than likely wouldn't appreciate his type of music...